Why Is ESPN Giving Pat McAfee A Boot Full of Loot?

ESPN has thrown a hail Mary pass to try to save the network, and threw the kitchen sink at Pat McAfee to bring his show to the network. It will now air across ESPN platforms and also remain on YouTube for viewers.

David Hookstead at Outkick calls it a very bold move, and it’s a sign ESPN understands something major has to happen to save the network. However, McAfee’s deal, which is said to pay him alone roughly $10 million annually, has upset some employees at the network amid financial issues and layoffs.

Disney is looking to slash $5.5 billion in costs and 7,000 jobs and ESPN is definitely getting hit. However, there’s some confusion as to how things are so tight layoffs are necessary while the company is throwing cash at McAfee.

ESPN employees reportedly aren’t pleased with the Pat McAfee deal.

“Too soon was the reaction I got from a few friends. Some that were let go are still working there until June. You are coming to grips with your departure, and then you see a big money signing. It’s not anti-McAfee…it’s your ex getting engaged a month after the breakup,” a former unnamed ESPN employee told Front Office Sports.

“There are some people who are upset. The timing of it is curious. They’re paying Aikman, Buck, Stephen A. Smith, and McAfee. And then you’re going to lay people off? Kind of weird.